Milecastle 48

Milecastle 48 is a Roman fortification near Gilsland featuring the remains of thick walls and gateways arranged in a rectangular layout. The interior structure clearly shows where barracks and work areas once stood, giving visitors a sense of how this defensive post was organized.

Built between 122 and 128 AD, this fort was part of the Roman border wall system. It represented one of many small garrisons spaced regularly along the line to monitor and defend the frontier.

This fort served as a checkpoint within the Roman frontier defense system, monitoring movement along the wall line. Visitors can still trace the layout of former buildings and imagine soldiers stationed here managing passage through this remote outpost.

The site sits along walking trails connected to Hadrian's Wall and is readily accessible to visitors. The open ground makes it easy to explore at any time of year without restrictions.

A preserved stone staircase in the northeast corner once connected to the upper wall-walk where sentries patrolled. This physical feature gives visitors a rare concrete clue about the fort's original height and daily operations.

Part of: Hadrian's Wall

GPS coordinates: 54.98900,-2.57352

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:01